@@ShonkyProductions - hope to mate. Spent 35 yrs riding dirt bikes in the Wattagans. Now old and lazy so touring with a bit of easy dirt is my thing with the Africa Twin AS DCT. Yes it’s heavy but with a 500-600km range, electronic suspension etc, I’m loving it.
Nice review. Have you tested the new Norden 901 Explorer? If not you might be short changing your options. For me, the Norden is the nicer looking and better finished 890. I have the '23 890 AR which is awesome but I struggle with the style. If the Explorer was out (with better suspension) when I was in the market, would have got that instead. I rode the Desert X and had ridden Ducatis for 20 years, but the punch from the 890 and the way it hammers in dirt and even the road, was too much fun. They just make you want to play. AND 400KM range 👌
Very nice and systematic review. I like your style and down to earth manner with the bike. I watch this from France, but it is just as useful as a local test would be. I have subscribed and will follow you. Keerp at it!
Yep 👍. Personally I’d go for the 660 because I don’t want or need the extra weight and power of the 900, but still, a head to head would be interesting. (Currently own a 2023 VStrom 650, no bashplate or crash bars. Often in the dirt, avoid mud like the plague because my porky girl is averse, allergic, to it).
Interesting to see the contrasts with mountain bike technology, and what these adv bikes. Weight is such a big issue when you have to pedal, it's not the only consideration but those manufacturers are always looking for ways to max performance, traction, comfort, and weight. With these engines obviously weight isn't as critical down to the gram, but KGs matter. Hoping we can a refinement in weight as a focus. Seems like it's trending that way somewhat, maybe I'm just delusional 😂
I have the same concern, coming from 30 years of cycling on/off road cyclocross gravel etc. How would an ultra lightweight upgrade/rebuild kit for an ADV bike be received in the market place? Realizing the prohibitive cost for most ADV bikes, I do realize the idea may be a pipe dream; best regards.
It’ll be interesting to see the aftermarket solutions for fuel. Something like the CamelAdv T7 aux tank might be good enough. Looks like BMW really stepped up and hit the mark apart from fuel range, need an easy 300-350 before worrying for fuel in AU. If I was buying today looks like it’d be a tough choice between my Desert X / F900 Enduro. You can get a good deal on the Ducati being a little older, no deals on the bmw being brand new. F900 does look the better off roader, ddx the better all rounder?
I was thinking the same thing... You could almost get the CamelADV rear tank for the T7 to fit straight on the F900gs. I'm sure there will be options out soon.
Hi Shonky. I met you at Worthingtons on Sunday. In terms of fuel, if I’m going to go on a long trip, I’m just gonna carry spare in my Mosko Moto Reckless 40 panniers. Which is what most people do anyway. I deleted the resonator today. Bike sounds like a complete beast now. I’m doing the ride next Wednesday with James. Can you make it?
Hello! Yes, that sounds like a great solution to carrying extra fuel when needed, and let's be honest... we don't need extra fuel all the time. I can't wait to hear your bike with the resonator delete. Not sure if I can make this Wednesday, I might have to work as I am heading off on another Shonky adventure on next Friday. Will definitely catch up soon as want to hear the bike and your thoughts on it.
Im in the same boat, BMW or Ducati????? At 179cm it fit me perfect and the BMW customer service is a massive plus. I have the same drawbacks...Fuel range and temporary lack of aftermarket support 🤔. Good review, Thanks 👌
It's definitely a case of first world problems, having to choose between two great bikes. Just go with whichever one feels best for you or gets you excited to ride. At the end of the day we ride for enjoyment, so go for the one you will enjoy the most and don't worry about the drawbacks.
Couple clicks up on the menu button, you would see the fuel range. A mate got taken out by a calf came out of long grass and surprised him. Took out his front wheel and he landed in hospital.
This is basically a rebranded Loncin Voge DS900X (chinese). People are actually paying 15k for a bike you could have for 9k, just because it says bmw on it...
Interesting.... I had never heard of this, but you are correct. Loncin makes the motor for the BMW F900 and it looks like they make their own cheaper version of the bike. We don't get this brand in Australia.
Great Video as always. Very Nice bike. But have you looked at the new CF Moto 450MT , Bigger tank, great suspension, tubeless wheels 3 x cheaper full of tech.
Hi Shonky, could the Suzuki V-Strom 800 DE be the motorcycle you are looking for in order to complement your CRF300 Rally? Seems to be very street oriented but still kind of capable offroad but not enough to overshadow your CRF
@@ianross225 Yes, I can see the thinking behind a smaller tank when the GSA model will also be available. Will be interesting to see how how the GSA compares.
Shonks, I am not interested in your new path of dragging 600cc plus of unnecessary weight/power around. Unless of course your staying on the black stuff, towing a trailer for missus on back for 1000’s of kms. That’s not for me. Hope you are ok?
Hi Scott, I'm doing good and now looking for a touring bike. Something that will do mostly black top and them be able to handle itself when the black top ends and the outback starts. Definitely not for the off road exploring that I like to do on my CRF300 Rally.
Chinese motor and a German pricetag, Poor fuel range, and High weight with a light slip on already fitted Such a shame when its the same company that made the HP2 Enduro(1150cc, 105hp 195kg wet)
@@BoostandBadHabits I don't see the problem. I've been watching this channel for YEARS because I too am a CRF 300 Rally rider. I've gotten some great content relevant to my interests here. Now there seems to be some indication that the channel may be changing direction to focus on other brands and bikes, that's all fine and dandy. I'm not "upset" about it, I'm just stating that non-CRF content does not interest me and thus I will reluctantly have to part ways with this channel. This is not based on the content of just "one video", but several recent videos which seem to suggest a brand/model pivot is inevitable. Before finalizing my decision, I wanted to thank the content creator for content given to me relevant to my interests thus far. But of course there's always someone like you in the comments who needs to interject and cast their own interpretation on the comment instead of understanding it within it's context. You said it yourself "idk you or this page" - in which case you should probably SFTU then.
@2000jago I'm not reading all that, my only problem is "people like you" immediately liking your own comments after posting them to make yourself feel better, because we both know there's nobody else up at 1am immediately liking your sub comment 😅🤡.
Great review. Nice to see a test done by a rider who's not on the factory payroll, or an ex world champion. Love your work.
Thanks, that's what I aim for... Just an average rider assessment of the bike used in an adventure riding setting.
I agree
@@jackchristodoulou197hey mate I thought you didn’t like the bmw 😂
@@paultheboxer love em shouldn't have sold my Gs1250Hp
Nice to see BMW slimming down this model. Some of the 850 GS bikes were massive. Great review!
Thanks Bill. Yes, it is much better than the older versions.
Nice to see a test done in my back yard 🥳
That's my local adventure test loop. Might bump into you sometime... Figuratively not literally!
@@ShonkyProductions - hope to mate. Spent 35 yrs riding dirt bikes in the Wattagans.
Now old and lazy so touring with a bit of easy dirt is my thing with the Africa Twin AS DCT. Yes it’s heavy but with a 500-600km range, electronic suspension etc, I’m loving it.
Nice review. Have you tested the new Norden 901 Explorer? If not you might be short changing your options. For me, the Norden is the nicer looking and better finished 890. I have the '23 890 AR which is awesome but I struggle with the style. If the Explorer was out (with better suspension) when I was in the market, would have got that instead. I rode the Desert X and had ridden Ducatis for 20 years, but the punch from the 890 and the way it hammers in dirt and even the road, was too much fun. They just make you want to play. AND 400KM range 👌
king? absolutely not - the next shiny thing? yes for sure..... It is a nice machine and it has a place
Very nice and systematic review. I like your style and down to earth manner with the bike. I watch this from France, but it is just as useful as a local test would be. I have subscribed and will follow you. Keerp at it!
Solid vid man would be interested on your thoughts for comparison between this and the Aprilia Tuareg 660
Yep 👍. Personally I’d go for the 660 because I don’t want or need the extra weight and power of the 900, but still, a head to head would be interesting. (Currently own a 2023 VStrom 650, no bashplate or crash bars. Often in the dirt, avoid mud like the plague because my porky girl is averse, allergic, to it).
Oooh, I didn't know that bike shop was there. I'll be going in next time I'm going past. Thanks for the vid. 😮
Definitely check it out and tell them Shonky sent you!
219 Wet is still crazy for a so called “middleweight” motorcycle
Interesting to see the contrasts with mountain bike technology, and what these adv bikes. Weight is such a big issue when you have to pedal, it's not the only consideration but those manufacturers are always looking for ways to max performance, traction, comfort, and weight. With these engines obviously weight isn't as critical down to the gram, but KGs matter. Hoping we can a refinement in weight as a focus. Seems like it's trending that way somewhat, maybe I'm just delusional 😂
I have the same concern, coming from 30 years of cycling on/off road cyclocross gravel etc. How would an ultra lightweight upgrade/rebuild kit for an ADV bike be received in the market place? Realizing the prohibitive cost for most ADV bikes, I do realize the idea may be a pipe dream; best regards.
Thanks for the review
I don't understand why offroad adventure bikes are getting bigger and heavier all the time, or less offroad.
When BMW or others come with a proper 4-500 cc, I will pay attention. All bikes above are too heavy.
I look at these bikes as dirt road tourers. Or adventure travel bikes.
That noise at 7:22... would have parked the bike in an instant :D... Here in PT is a bit on the expensive side... costing over 19k.
Fair and balanced, appreciate your review approach for an adventure rider.
Thanks, I'm trying to provide unbiased, information for the ordinary adventure rider.
It’ll be interesting to see the aftermarket solutions for fuel. Something like the CamelAdv T7 aux tank might be good enough. Looks like BMW really stepped up and hit the mark apart from fuel range, need an easy 300-350 before worrying for fuel in AU. If I was buying today looks like it’d be a tough choice between my Desert X / F900 Enduro. You can get a good deal on the Ducati being a little older, no deals on the bmw being brand new. F900 does look the better off roader, ddx the better all rounder?
I was thinking the same thing... You could almost get the CamelADV rear tank for the T7 to fit straight on the F900gs. I'm sure there will be options out soon.
Good review 👍 mate I've had my Ducati desert x 4 months love it
I bet you do, it's a fantastic bike. I felt very comfortable with is straight away on the dirt.
Thank you !
Hi Shonky. I met you at Worthingtons on Sunday. In terms of fuel, if I’m going to go on a long trip, I’m just gonna carry spare in my Mosko Moto Reckless 40 panniers. Which is what most people do anyway. I deleted the resonator today. Bike sounds like a complete beast now. I’m doing the ride next Wednesday with James. Can you make it?
Hello!
Yes, that sounds like a great solution to carrying extra fuel when needed, and let's be honest... we don't need extra fuel all the time.
I can't wait to hear your bike with the resonator delete. Not sure if I can make this Wednesday, I might have to work as I am heading off on another Shonky adventure on next Friday.
Will definitely catch up soon as want to hear the bike and your thoughts on it.
Brother can you share some more details about the resonator delete, where did you get it? A google search doesnt turn up much info
Im in the same boat, BMW or Ducati????? At 179cm it fit me perfect and the BMW customer service is a massive plus. I have the same drawbacks...Fuel range and temporary lack of aftermarket support 🤔. Good review, Thanks 👌
It's definitely a case of first world problems, having to choose between two great bikes. Just go with whichever one feels best for you or gets you excited to ride. At the end of the day we ride for enjoyment, so go for the one you will enjoy the most and don't worry about the drawbacks.
Cleaning the air filter on Ducati wont be much fun.
Agree!@@brucekendall52
Couple clicks up on the menu button, you would see the fuel range. A mate got taken out by a calf came out of long grass and surprised him. Took out his front wheel and he landed in hospital.
Dam, sorry to hear about your mate... I hope he is ok. I did figure out the fuel gauge in the end, thanks.
This is basically a rebranded Loncin Voge DS900X (chinese). People are actually paying 15k for a bike you could have for 9k, just because it says bmw on it...
Interesting.... I had never heard of this, but you are correct. Loncin makes the motor for the BMW F900 and it looks like they make their own cheaper version of the bike. We don't get this brand in Australia.
Great Video as always. Very Nice bike. But have you looked at the new CF Moto 450MT , Bigger tank, great suspension, tubeless wheels 3 x cheaper full of tech.
Still waiting for the CF Moto 450 here. I have a couple of mates that have ordered them, so it will be interesting to see how they are.
Hi Shonky, could the Suzuki V-Strom 800 DE be the motorcycle you are looking for in order to complement your CRF300 Rally? Seems to be very street oriented but still kind of capable offroad but not enough to overshadow your CRF
Good suggestion... I'll do some research into it.
It looks promising, but I'll probably have to keep my T7 for a few more years.
Dont think they are comperable. Even tuareg wins over t7. Sorry. Bmw is in differnt legue. We like it or not.
@@gatisspetersonss I agree.
You and your team do great work Mahyar thank you , from fascist controlled Australia.
219 kg wet and a measly 14.5 L. Not good enough.
Yes, on paper those numbers don't look good but when you ride the bike it hides its weight really well. The fuel issue... that needs some attention.
Weight is an issue and largely the reason for the smaller tank at a guess but also as a differentiator from a future GSA which will get 20 litres.
@@ianross225 Yes, I can see the thinking behind a smaller tank when the GSA model will also be available. Will be interesting to see how how the GSA compares.
The GSA is already available and they are not the same bike whatsoever
@@stevepotter5813 yes, you are correct. I just Googled it.
Did your test bike have a 21inch front wheel??
Yes it did by the looks.... i like the coloured ones more!
Rack coming Q3.... and I am sure there will be a GSA with 100L fuel tank :)
Interesting... Will be waiting to see the rack options. And I think the GSA will released mid year.
Shonks, I am not interested in your new path of dragging 600cc plus of unnecessary weight/power around. Unless of course your staying on the black stuff, towing a trailer for missus on back for 1000’s of kms. That’s not for me. Hope you are ok?
Hi Scott, I'm doing good and now looking for a touring bike. Something that will do mostly black top and them be able to handle itself when the black top ends and the outback starts. Definitely not for the off road exploring that I like to do on my CRF300 Rally.
By the title I won't watch the video....any Beemer rushing to say "King of" and the "best of all"
Perhaps you missed the question mark in the title... it's not a statement.
Chinese motor and a German pricetag, Poor fuel range, and High weight with a light slip on already fitted
Such a shame when its the same company that made the HP2 Enduro(1150cc, 105hp 195kg wet)
I love this bike it’s overpriced for what it is. I’d insta buy it if it was priced at $15k loaded up
If this channel stops being centered around the CRF300 Rally, I'm out. Thanks for the content to date. It's been fun.
People that threaten to leave a channel due to not getting their way 😂🤡
@@BoostandBadHabits People who get upset when they read an opinion on the internet 🤣🤣
@2000jago idk you or this page. Just voicing my opinion about you being upset on his choice of video
@@BoostandBadHabits I don't see the problem. I've been watching this channel for YEARS because I too am a CRF 300 Rally rider. I've gotten some great content relevant to my interests here. Now there seems to be some indication that the channel may be changing direction to focus on other brands and bikes, that's all fine and dandy. I'm not "upset" about it, I'm just stating that non-CRF content does not interest me and thus I will reluctantly have to part ways with this channel. This is not based on the content of just "one video", but several recent videos which seem to suggest a brand/model pivot is inevitable. Before finalizing my decision, I wanted to thank the content creator for content given to me relevant to my interests thus far.
But of course there's always someone like you in the comments who needs to interject and cast their own interpretation on the comment instead of understanding it within it's context. You said it yourself "idk you or this page" - in which case you should probably SFTU then.
@2000jago I'm not reading all that, my only problem is "people like you" immediately liking your own comments after posting them to make yourself feel better, because we both know there's nobody else up at 1am immediately liking your sub comment 😅🤡.
Sorry but 350km is impossible on 900gs
That's the impression I am getting now... which is a shame.
That bike is Chinese in most of its major components, like...the engine. No thank you!
Adventure princess is probably better. It is a shame BMW make bikes and cars from Chinesium. They are nice to drive when they work.
Please explain?
Are there issues I should know about if I was to buy one?